Northwest Arkansas February 2026 Newsletter

Posted

February 4, 2026

Category

Newsletters

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THE MOTT MILLION DOLLAR CHALLENGE: WHERE BOLD IDEAS WIN BIG

The Mott Million Dollar Challenge is where K-12 students across the country pitch ideas that improve their very own schools, homes, or communities. Whether it’s a product, invention, or social solution, this is the place where bold ideas win big. Kids and teens just need to record a 30-90 second pitch video, and submit by February 27. Finalists earn real cash prizes from the $1 million prize pool, and an invitation to an epic celebration in June.

Learn more at mottmillion.org.

YEI is here to help. Let us know if you need educator or student support for your program by contacting Marion Dunagan.

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RECOMMENDATIONS TO MEET YOUR NEEDS

Looking for help finding the right resources for your classroom?

You can use YIPPEE’s built-in Assistant to get personalized recommendations!

The Assistant lives at the top of the Shop page after you log in. Answer three short questions, and the YIPPEE Shopping Assistant will suggest resources that match your needs.

Resources may include:

• Field trips • Student workshops. • Lesson plans. • And more!

Most resources are available at no cost, thanks to the generous support of YIPPEE's sponsors. Learn more at yippeemarket.com.

YIPPEE FEATURED RESOURCE: Supporting Student Success Beyond Academics with JAKAPA

Imagine your students leaving your classroom not just with academic knowledge, but with the confidence, creativity, and adaptability to think like entrepreneurs and turn ideas into action.

JAKAPA is a hands-on system that measures, develops, and tracks entrepreneurial and employability skills — the same traits that drive innovation in business, careers, and life. It’s more than an assessment; it’s a daily practice that helps students see opportunities, solve problems, and create value in any setting.

Click here to sign up for JAKAPA using YIPPEE points.

Educators who sign up on or before February 15, 2026, will also receive access to a free professional-learning webinar about JAKAPA and practical classroom strategies that can be applied immediately.

EDUCATOR ADVISORY GROUP

YEI is creating a process to recognize K-12 educators' dedication to teaching entrepreneurship.

We have developed a framework and are now looking for a larger group of advisors to continue collaborating and be the first participants. From defining key skills and professional learning opportunities to aligning student programs and district needs, your insights will play a central role.

If you are interested in joining this group and the stipend involved, please contact Elizabeth Clymer.

SAVE THE DATE! FEBRUARY EDUCATOR POWER HOUR

What: YEI's February Educator Power
Topic: Let Them Lead: Elevating Student Voice with Entrepreneurship

When: Tuesday, February 24 from 3:00-4:00pm CST

Where: online via Zoom

Click here to register!

Please contact Elizabeth Clymer with questions.

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